How many inputs does the Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen have?

The interface features two microphone/line inputs and two dedicated Hi-Z instrument inputs. This allows for simultaneous recording of two separate signals, such as a vocal and a guitar.

What is the dynamic range of this interface?

The 4th Gen model features 120dB of dynamic range. This is achieved through the use of studio-grade converters that provide professional-level headroom.

Does it come with any recording software?

Yes, it includes a comprehensive songwriter's toolkit. This includes Pro Tools Intro, Ableton Live Lite, and the Focusrite Hitmaker Expansion bundle.

Can I record electric guitars directly into the 2i2?

Yes, the device has two Hi-Z instrument inputs specifically designed for high-impedance sources like electric guitars. It also comes with Softube's Marshall Silver Jubilee 2555 amp simulation software.

Is the Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen compatible with USB-C?

Yes, it features USB-C connectivity for interfacing with modern computers. It typically draws power directly from the USB bus.

What vocal processing software is included?

The interface bundle includes Antares Auto-Tune Access. This is a popular tool for pitch correction and creative vocal effects.

How does it compare to the Behringer UMC202HD?

While both offer two inputs, the Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen features higher-grade converters with a 120dB dynamic range. It also includes a more extensive professional software bundle compared to the Behringer.

What is the 'Hitmaker Expansion'?

The Hitmaker Expansion is a suite of included software from various manufacturers. It features plugins like Native Instruments MASSIVE, Softube Marshall Silver Jubilee, and various Focusrite production tools.

Is this interface suitable for professional work?

Yes, the combination of ultra-low-noise preamps and studio-grade converters makes it capable of professional-quality results. It is frequently used by established artists like Stine Bramsen.

Can I use external synthesizers with this device?

Yes, the line inputs allow you to connect external hardware synthesizers. Additionally, it comes with Native Instruments MASSIVE for software-based synthesis.

What is the difference between the 2i2 and the 18i20 4th Gen?

The 2i2 is a compact two-input interface geared towards solo performers. The Scarlett 18i20 is a larger rackmount unit with significantly more inputs and outputs for full-band recording.

What is the typical price for the Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen?

The interface is typically priced around £315 in the UK market. This price includes the hardware and the complete software bundle.

Gear article

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen Audio Interface

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen is a professional-grade USB audio interface designed for musicians and songwriters. It features two remote-controlled mic preamps, high-impedance instrument inputs, and a 120dB dynamic range using studio-standard converters.

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Background and Development

The Scarlett series by Focusrite has established itself as one of the most widely used audio interface lines globally. The 4th Gen iteration of the 2i2 represents a significant technical update over its predecessors, focusing on improved conversion quality and enhanced preamplification. It is designed as a portable but high-fidelity solution for desktop recording environments, maintaining the signature red chassis while upgrading the internal architecture.

Technical Features and Design

The interface is equipped with two ultra-low-noise microphone preamps and two dedicated Hi-Z (high impedance) inputs for instruments like electric guitars. A primary technical advancement in this generation is the inclusion of studio-grade converters that offer a 120dB dynamic range, providing significantly more headroom than entry-level units. The device utilizes USB-C for connectivity and power, ensuring compatibility with modern computer hardware.

Software and Workflow

Each unit includes a comprehensive 'Hitmaker Expansion' software bundle designed to provide a complete production environment. This includes:

Digital Audio Workstations: Pro Tools Intro and Ableton Live Lite.
Vocal Processing: Antares Auto-Tune Access.
Guitar Simulation: Softube Marshall Silver Jubilee 2555.
Synthesizers: Native Instruments MASSIVE.

This bundle allows users to move from initial tracking to final mixing without purchasing additional third-party plugins immediately.

Sound Character

The Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen is characterised by its transparency and low noise floor. The preamps are designed to capture a clean, undistorted signal, while the high dynamic range ensures that subtle nuances in a performance are preserved. This neutral character makes it a versatile tool for various genres, from acoustic songwriter sessions to high-gain electric guitar recording.

Target Audience and Comparisons

The 2i2 4th Gen is specifically suited for solo artists and small groups, such as the Danish singer Stine Bramsen, who require a balance of portability and high-fidelity sound.

When compared to alternatives like the Blackstar Polar 4 or the Tascam US-2x2HR, the Scarlett stands out for its specific software bundle and high dynamic range. While more affordable options like the Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD or M-Audio M-Track Solo provide basic recording functionality, they do not offer the 120dB range or the professional-tier software suite included with the Focusrite 4th Gen series.

Artists who play it

Stine Bramsen
Singer

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Frequently asked questions

How many inputs does the Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen have?: The interface features two microphone/line inputs and two dedicated Hi-Z instrument inputs. This allows for simultaneous recording of two separate signals, such as a vocal and a guitar.
What is the dynamic range of this interface?: The 4th Gen model features 120dB of dynamic range. This is achieved through the use of studio-grade converters that provide professional-level headroom.
Does it come with any recording software?: Yes, it includes a comprehensive songwriter's toolkit. This includes Pro Tools Intro, Ableton Live Lite, and the Focusrite Hitmaker Expansion bundle.
Can I record electric guitars directly into the 2i2?: Yes, the device has two Hi-Z instrument inputs specifically designed for high-impedance sources like electric guitars. It also comes with Softube's Marshall Silver Jubilee 2555 amp simulation software.
Is the Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen compatible with USB-C?: Yes, it features USB-C connectivity for interfacing with modern computers. It typically draws power directly from the USB bus.
What vocal processing software is included?: The interface bundle includes Antares Auto-Tune Access. This is a popular tool for pitch correction and creative vocal effects.
How does it compare to the Behringer UMC202HD?: While both offer two inputs, the Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen features higher-grade converters with a 120dB dynamic range. It also includes a more extensive professional software bundle compared to the Behringer.
What is the 'Hitmaker Expansion'?: The Hitmaker Expansion is a suite of included software from various manufacturers. It features plugins like Native Instruments MASSIVE, Softube Marshall Silver Jubilee, and various Focusrite production tools.
Is this interface suitable for professional work?: Yes, the combination of ultra-low-noise preamps and studio-grade converters makes it capable of professional-quality results. It is frequently used by established artists like Stine Bramsen.
Can I use external synthesizers with this device?: Yes, the line inputs allow you to connect external hardware synthesizers. Additionally, it comes with Native Instruments MASSIVE for software-based synthesis.
What is the difference between the 2i2 and the 18i20 4th Gen?: The 2i2 is a compact two-input interface geared towards solo performers. The Scarlett 18i20 is a larger rackmount unit with significantly more inputs and outputs for full-band recording.
What is the typical price for the Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen?: The interface is typically priced around £315 in the UK market. This price includes the hardware and the complete software bundle.